Selling Privately
Most people think that their only option when it comes to selling their car is to take it to a dealership and accept whatever offer they give them. This, however, is not the case. Selling your car privately can often be your best option when looking for a good price.
Before you put your car up for sale it is essential that you obtain and keep a copy of the vehicle’s logbook and supporting documents to show prospective buyers if they ask. Additionally, you are also advised to have a valid MOT certificate if your car is more than three years old. When it comes to advertizing your car, you will have various options including newspapers, websites and social media. Make sure that you include all important details in the advertisement and take good quality photographs. You must also remember to accept payment only when you have the relevant paperwork and money to show for the sale.
When you have had your car valued, you should set a realistic price that you are prepared to negotiate on. It is also a good idea to consider lowing your price in order to attract more buyers. Meet any potential buyers at a neutral location and drive with them on a test drive. Bear in mind that when you are selling your car privately you will be acting as both the seller and the agent and therefore, any grievances with the car or its condition will put you at risk of being liable.
Selling to Car Buying Service
If you are looking to avoid the hassle of selling your car to a private buyer, then selling to a professional car buying service is a great option. Car buying services, such as We Buy Any Car, offer a convenient alternative to advertising and negotiating with private buyers. When using a car buying service you will usually be required to book an appointment, which could take usually take up to around 20 minutes. During this time, the buyer will run a series of tests to ensure that the car is as described and then offer you an instant price based on their assessment.
When it comes to getting the best price for your car it is essential that you research the market and compare the offers from several car buying companies. This will make sure that you are getting the best price for your car. It is also important to remember that when you sell your car to a car buying service, you will not receive the full market value for it. Instead, you will be paid a lower price to account for any depreciation or wear and tear.
Selling to a Dealer
For some, the process of selling a car privately or through a car buying service could be too daunting. A simple and convenient alternative could be to sell it to a dealer. With a car dealership, you will be able to get an instant value for your car based on its make and model. However, it is important to remember that dealers usually purchase cars to resell rather than to use themselves – so they will offer lower than the market value. Additionally, you may also be able to use your car as a part-exchange when buying a new car from a dealership.
Selling at Auction
Attending an auction may be the best option for those who want to get the true market value for their car. Selling a car at an auction means that your car is likely to be sold at a higher price than it would if it were sold to a dealer or car buying service. However, these auctions are very competitive, so it is important to consider the fees and charges that are involved and make sure that you are familiar with the auction process.
Insurance and Tax
Regardless of how you decide to sell your car, it is essential that you inform your car insurance and car tax provider. You must also make sure that you are legally entitled to sell your car, as the vehicle must be in your name. If you have any doubt or queries surrounding this, you should check with the relevant authorities to ensure that you are not breaking any laws.
Advertising Your Car
It is essential that you create an advertisement that will attract buyers. Make sure that your ad is detailed and include all important details, like mileage, and also make sure to include clear, quality photos of your car. You should also follow the laws of the Advertising Standards Authority and not inaccurately advertise or misrepresent your car and its condition.
Security and Scams
Security is something that must be taken very seriously when you are selling your car. No matter how you decide to sell it, make sure that you meet buyers in a public place and bring a friend with you to help keep you safe. Also, be aware of any potential scams, such as buyers offering to pay with cheques or claiming to be from a car buying service. If something feels off, then trust your gut and politely decline any offers.
Negotiations
Although it is often recommended to accept the first offer, negotiations can be a great way to get more money for your car. Make sure that you are familiar with all of the features and benefits of your car and be able to highlight these to a potential buyer if they ask. Additionally, negotiations can be an effective way of attracting more buyers if you are selling your car privately.
Documentation and Payment
When it comes to completing the sale, it is essential that you keep all of the relevant paperwork and take payment only when the transfer of ownership has been completed. When you accept payment, make sure that you have received the money and the appropriate documents before you sign anything. Additionally, it is also important that you keep a copy of all of the relevant paperwork, as well as the money you received.
Maintenance Records and Repairs
Before you sell your car, make sure that you have all of your maintenance records and that any repairs that need to be done have been completed. This will ensure that you will get the best price for your car and also make sure that any potential issues are taken care of. Additionally, having your car serviced and checked by an expert could help attract more buyers as it will show that the car is of good quality.
Pre Inspection
It is essential that you get your car inspected before you put it up for sale. This will give you a clearer idea of its condition and help you to set a realistic price. Additionally, an inspection could also help to identify any potential problems which could give potential buyers peace of mind.
What to do Following the Sale
Once you have sold your car, it is important to remember to inform the DVLA that the car has been sold and to deregister the vehicle. Additionally, make sure that you keep hold of all of the paperwork and paperwork that you received when you sold your car and use this as proof of sale. Lastly, make sure that you cancel any coverage that you have on the car and also cancel any services, like MOT and insurance, that you have in place.
